Assessing GHG Emissions Implications of Forest Residue Use for Energy Production

Kirsten Franzen; Alice Favero; Caleb Milliken; Chris Wade

doi:10.1111/gcbb.70045

journal article Open Access May 16, 2025

Assessing GHG Emissions Implications of Forest Residue Use for Energy Production

Kirsten Franzen

Alice Favero

Caleb Milliken Chris Wade

GCB Bioenergy Vol. 17 No. 6 · Wiley

View at Publisher Save 10.1111/gcbb.70045

Abstract

ABSTRACTAs global interest in enhancing energy security, reducing energy costs, and promoting rural economic development grows, the use of forest residues for bioenergy has gained attention. While bioenergy derived from forest residues can help meet power needs and support policy goals, significant uncertainty remains regarding the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with their production and use. This study aims to explore the key drivers of these uncertainties by reviewing estimates of GHG emissions from forest residue use for energy, as presented in peer‐reviewed journals, reports, and gray literature. The findings reveal a wide range of GHG emission outcomes, with some studies suggesting net emissions and others indicating net removals. This uncertainty stems from the complexity of time scales, variety of forest management approaches and feedstock quality, assumptions about alternative scenarios, and varying approaches to emissions accounting. Recognizing that each method has its unique attributes, we propose an ideal framework that integrates multiple approaches to provide a more comprehensive assessment of the potential net GHG outcomes of using forest residues for energy.

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References

Details

Published: May 16, 2025
Vol/Issue: 17(6)
License: View

Authors

K

Kirsten Franzen

RTI International, Center for Applied Economics and Strategy Durham North Carolina USA

A

Alice Favero

RTI International, Center for Applied Economics and Strategy Durham North Carolina USA

C

Caleb Milliken

RTI International, Center for Applied Economics and Strategy Durham North Carolina USA

C

Chris Wade

RTI International, Center for Applied Economics and Strategy Durham North Carolina USA

Funding

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Cite This Article

Kirsten Franzen, Alice Favero, Caleb Milliken, et al. (2025). Assessing GHG Emissions Implications of Forest Residue Use for Energy Production. GCB Bioenergy, 17(6). https://doi.org/10.1111/gcbb.70045

Assessing GHG Emissions Implications of Forest Residue Use for Energy Production

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